If you’re missing teeth, you may feel self-conscious about smiling or eating in public. Fortunately, advancements in dental care mean you have options to restore both your confidence and the appearance of your teeth. Some patients may be optimal candidates for dentures, while others might want to consider dental implants. Here’s what you should know about the two.

Dentures

Dentures are essentially replacements for your real teeth. They’re easy to remove and fit into place, and are available either as complete or partial sets. This is usually the best option for individuals who are missing several teeth instead of just one or two. The beauty of this choice is that you can remove them at the end of the day. They’re also more cost-effective, which may be important if you’re on a budget.

It's crucial to care for them properly to prevent them from staining or losing their integrity over time. Generally, your dentist will probably recommend dentures if your jawbone is already weak, or if there’s a danger that it may weaken gradually in the future. 

Dental Implants

By contrast, a dental implant is a permanent solution for your missing teeth. Their primary benefit is longevity. You don’t remove these at any point; they essentially take the place of your actual teeth, and both look and feel just like them, too. You maintain them just as you do real teeth, with regular brushing and flossing as part of your routine.

Some people may find that chewing is improved when they wear implants. Dentures don’t offer the same degree of strength, but implants allow the wearer to chew trickier substances with ease. It’s also a lasting alternative that doesn’t require as much upkeep and maintenance as conventional dentures. 

If you’d like to find out whether you’re a good candidate for dentures or dental implants, visit the office of Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS. Proudly serving patients throughout Kaneohe, HI, Dr. Kujiraoka and her staff offer gentle, comprehensive care and a range of services to ensure that your teeth and gums are always healthy. Rely on them for everything from veneers to whitening. Visit the website for more information, or call (808) 235-2121 to schedule an appointment.